Canada

Eastern Townships Cycling
6 Days
Experience French joie de vivre right here in North America! Step into history and take in the European ambiance in the heart of southern Québec’s Eastern Townships. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, discover a land of enchanted forests, babbling brooks and peaceful lakes. Pedal along undiscovered country roads and specially-designed bike paths through covered bridges, past serene monasteries, and spectacular round barns. Listen for the toll of local church bells. The perfect souvenir awaits your discovery among the many galleries, studios and antique shops that populate the many picturesque villages you’ll encounter. Each night settle into your cozy accommodation and be treated to first-class cuisine. You’ll never forget your visit to this breathtaking corner of Canada.

Day 1
Arrive in Magog, known as the ‘jewel box of the Townships’. Take the time to discover the vibrant main street, filled with boutiques and restaurants. You may also choose to explore the lake-front walking and cycling paths. This afternoon you will meet your area manager and get fitted to your bikes.

Day 2
Pedal along the shores of Lake Memphrémagog en route to the lakefront Abbey Saint-Benoît-du-Lac — where Benedictine monks have worked and lived since the early part of last century. Be sure to pick up a few supplies for a picnic lunch at the monastery, which is famous for excellent cheeses and apple cider. It is then off to take up the challenge of cycling through Mount Orford Provincial Park along the Trans-Canada Trail. This wonderful park is noted for the beauty of its scenery. Ending your day in Magog, with a relaxing dip in one of its many beaches. Distance: 64 km, elevation gain 636 m.*

Day 3
Leave Magog to cycle through the rolling foothills of the Appalachians, encountering a postcard-picturesque covered bridge and scenic little hamlets. Reach the American border town of Beebe Plain, where the main street straddles the border. Canadian flags are prominently displayed to the north, while American Flags fly proudly to the south. Your destination is another border town—Stanstead. Tonight you will spend the night in a lovely Victorian manor house. Distance: 42 km, elevation gain 609 m.*

Day 4
Head north through the lakeside village of Ayer’s Cliff to North Hatley, your destination for today. Along the way you may choose to stop at the birthplace of Louis Saint-Laurent—Canada’s 16th Prime Minister, in Compton (an excellent spot for an ice-cream stop!). Be sure to save some time to investigate the many studios and antique shops in the area. This village has long been a haven for artists and artisans, and is renowned for its wonderful antiques and art. You will also want to explore the lovely shores of Lake Massawippi. Distance: 34 up to 61 km, elevation gain 354 m.*

Day 5
Your day ride out of North Hatley takes you through a diversity of experiences - beautiful countryside with quiet forests, rolling pastures and stunning vistas, to a riverside bike network through the City of Sherbrooke - the 7th largest city in Quebec. Take the time to explore the delightful architectural heritage, amazing art galleries and excellent museums, before you weave your way back to North Hatley via the university town of Lennoxville and an amazing Capleton copper mine. Distance: 51 km, elevation gain 399 m.*

Day 6

Take a final stroll around North Hatley or do some last minute souvenir hunting, before departing for another adventure.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.